Join us in this special Black History Month episode as we introduce Lloyd Bernard Free, widely known as World B Free, NBA All-Star and the man before LeBron who saved Cleveland basketball. Discover the journey of one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, also known as the Brownsville Bomber and Mr. World B Free!
🌍 Upbringing:
Born in Atlanta and playing high school ball in Brooklyn, New York, World B Free's journey began. Learn about his college days at Guilford College NAIA, a school inspiring social justice reform, where he won the National NAIA Tournament and MVP as a freshman, playing alongside ML Carr.
🏀 Draft Process:
Explore the draft process and initial thoughts on being drafted 2.23 to Philly. Delve into his early NBA years and massive stat jumps, questioning what changed in his second and fourth seasons.
⭐ NBA Stardom:
Craig discusses World B Free's All-Star nod, finishing second in the scoring title race to George Gervin. Explore the transformation of basketball during the golden era of the mid-'70s to late '80s.
🔄 Era Transformation:
Witness the evolution of basketball during this golden era, from playing when the 3pt line was added to being credited with saving basketball in Cleveland.
🔍 Social Justice and Civil Rights:
Mike's mental minute uncovers World B Free's experiences with racism and playing through major movements in civil rights history.
🎓 Life After Basketball:
Discover World B Free's journey post-NBA as the Director of Player Development and Community Ambassador for the Sixers.
🏆 Hall of Fame Controversy:
Craig questions if World B Free feels robbed of a Hall of Fame spot and explores aspects of his career that he wishes were more talked about.
🔗 Outro:
Don't miss out! This episode is also available on all streaming platforms. Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with upcoming guests and exclusive content!
Previously recorded episode from February of 2023.
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Jordan Daly: https://www.instagram.com/jordandalynba/
Mike Taylor: https://www.instagram.com/88miketaylor/
Craig Smith: https://www.instagram.com/blackrhino83/
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Buy Craig's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/1dOsINE